Weather and Economics

Insights into the intersection of weather and the economy

All posts tagged lemonade

It’s been a devastating year for those dealing in citrus fruits. Unusually high temperatures during the flowering period in the key growing regions of Valencia and Malaga has affected pollination of crops and stunted flower growth in Spain. At the same time, an outbreak of citrus black spot on the Eastern Cape has delayed the picking season in South Africa. With crop yields falling in both regions, supply has shifted to Argentina, but torrential rains during the harvesting period there have led to severe disruptions and delayed seasonal shipping to European markets.

Lemons and limes may not seem all that interesting as one reaches for an afternoon snack, save for those suffering their way through the infamous Master Cleanse, but in fact they are used in large quantities on a daily basis by restaurants and bars in cocktails, sauces, and marinades. The current shortage has meant that those restaurateurs and bar owners buying on the open market will either be unable to source their requirements of citrus products, or pay dearly for the privilege.